Study GuideMicrobiology–The Unicellular Algae1.Divisions of Unicellular AlgaeUnicellular algae are microscopic organisms that usually exist assingle cells. Because of their smallsize and simple structure, several groups of unicellular algae are studied inmicrobiology.All unicellular algae discussed here are placed in thekingdom Protista. Five major divisions arecommonly considered.1.1Division Chlorophyta–Green AlgaeMembers of the divisionChlorophytaare known asgreen algae.•They containgreen chlorophyll pigments•They also havecarotenoid pigments•These pigments help them performphotosynthesisA well-known example isChlamydomonas, which is widely used in laboratories and research.•Chlamydomonas produceszoospores•Zoospores aremotile spores with flagellaScientists believe organisms like Chlamydomonas may beevolutionary ancestorsof more complexlife forms.Other members of this division include:•Volvox•Spirogyra1.2Division Charophyta–StonewortsMembers of the divisionCharophytaare commonly calledstoneworts.•They grow on thebottoms of ponds•Over time, they can contribute to the formation oflimestoneAlthough they are algae, stoneworts resemble higher plants in some structural features.Preview Mode
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